Every year, many await the arrival of great news. The long wait is over—the results for the 2025 Eric Hoffer Book Award have been released. “Covid 19 and A Preacher’s Love Letters” by Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn Sr. has been nominated for this prestigious honor.
The announcement of the 2025 Eric Hoffer Book Award winners marks a significant milestone in the literary world, spotlighting the exceptional achievements of authors and publishers who embody the spirit of independent thought and creativity. This esteemed award continues to honor the legacy of the great American philosopher Eric Hoffer by recognizing books of outstanding merit from small, academic, and independent presses—including self-published works.
The award encompasses a range of honors, including the Grand Prize, category winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions across various genres. Additionally, special distinctions—such as the Montaigne Medal for the most thought-provoking books, the da Vinci Eye for superior book cover art, the First Horizon Award for debut authors, and the Medal Provocateur for experimental poetry—further highlight the diversity and excellence within the independent publishing community.
While the Grand Prize is the pinnacle of the Eric Hoffer Book Award, the significance of a nomination cannot be overstated. The rigorous judging process ensures that only the most exceptional works rise to the top, with fewer than 10% of nominees becoming category finalists. This distinction not only validates the quality and impact of a book but also provides authors and publishers with increased visibility and credibility in the competitive literary market.
Moreover, the recognition associated with a nomination can lead to broader media exposure, opportunities for speaking engagements, and increased sales. For independent authors and publishers, such acknowledgment can be transformative—opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.
This year, “Covid 19 and A Preacher’s Love Letters” by Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn Sr.has been nominated for an award. This recognition honors the book’s exceptional literary merit and its contribution to independent publishing. Selected for its originality, depth, and thought-provoking content, the book exemplifies the spirit of the award by offering a unique and compelling voice that resonates beyond mainstream publishing. Whether through powerful storytelling, insightful analysis, or innovative ideas, the work reflects a dedication to intellectual exploration and artistic integrity. Its nomination highlights not only the quality of the writing but also its meaningful impact on readers—staying true to the legacy of Eric Hoffer by encouraging critical thinking and celebrating the independent spirit.
Recently, “Covid 19 and A Preacher’s Love Letters” by Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn Sr. was displayed at the London Book Fair (LBF) at Olympia London from March 11-13, 2025.
The London Book Fair serves as a premier gathering for the global publishing community, providing a platform for individuals to forge connections, gain valuable insights, and shape the future of creative content. This event brings together a diverse spectrum of professionals, including publishers, dealmakers, copyright specialists, commissioners, and global licensors, all representing the broad scope of the publishing industry.
“Covid 19 and A Preacher’s Love Letters” by Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn, Sr., was acclaimed by Michael Radon of the US Review of Books, who highlighted that “Each letter is effectively paired with a pertinent Bible verse but often incorporates other teachings or examples from scripture designed to give readers hope and strength to face unprecedented obstacles.”
The US Review of Books (USRB) recommends “Covid 19 and A Preacher’s Love Letters” by Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn, Sr. Here’s the review from the USRB that highlights:
“While certainly, the difficult and unpredictable events of the pandemic years are not easy for anyone to forget, it is important to remember the various ways in which people came together to support and keep each other going. This book serves partially as a testament of faith and works and also a historical document of sorts. Each letter is effectively paired with a pertinent Bible verse but often incorporates other teachings or examples from scripture designed to give readers hope and strength to face unprecedented obstacles. Though the specific challenges of 2020 and 2021 have been tackled and conquered, the lessons of those days still have relevance and parallels even now, and this book will inspire its readers to be grateful for the things that kept them going then while also finding the strength to keep going today.”
Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn Sr. was born in Camden, N.J., and was licensed to preach at the age of 15. His formal education preparations include a Bachelor of Arts from Morgan State College, Baltimore, MD; a Master of Divinity Degree from Howard University, Washington, D.C.; a Pastoral Certificate from the Foundation for Religion and Mental Health at Grasslands Hospital, Westchester County, N.Y.; and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Drew University, Madison, N.J. He has also been elected to membership in the Phi Sigma Tau National Honor Society in Philosophy. Dr. Churn’s academic preparation, coupled with the anointing, has afforded him the opportunity to preach the Word of God across the United States, Great Britain, India, Guyana, Kenya, Jamaica, and South Africa.
“Covid 19 and A Preacher’s Love Letters” by Reverend Dr. Serenus T. Churn, Sr. is a poignant collection of letters crafted during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The book serves as a means of providing hope, comfort, and encouragement to a congregation that faced unprecedented challenges during these times. Each letter embodies messages of faith, resilience, and positivity, aiming to guide readers through their fears and uncertainties brought on by the pandemic.
Judging for this year’s award has officially concluded, and we’re pleased to share the final results. You can view the winners by visiting the Eric Hoffer Award page at: